After going through the details of the case, how can I start the case? Every time when I see a case interview question with a solution, I am quite comfortable in understanding the solution. However, I haven't been able to take the initial step on my own.

Hi Krishna,

This is very common, and it usually means you’re missing a default starting routine, not that you lack ability. Understanding solutions is a sign you’re on the right track — you just need a repeatable first move.

Here’s how to start any case, step by step:

1) Restate the objective
Say the goal in your own words to align and buy time.
Example: “So the goal is to understand why profits declined and what the client should do to improve them.”

2) Ask 1–2 clarifying questions
Only ask things that materially change the analysis (time frame, scope, definition of success). Don’t overdo it.

3) Propose a simple top-level structure
This is where people freeze — the trick is to keep it basic. Most cases can start with:

• Revenue vs costs
• Market attractiveness vs internal capabilities
• Value drivers vs feasibility vs risks

You’re not committing to this structure forever — it’s just a starting hypothesis.

4) Pick a starting point and explain why
Choose one branch and justify it briefly.
Example: “I’d start with costs since revenue seems stable and margins declined.”

That’s it. You don’t need the perfect framework — you need a reasonable first step.

How to practice this
Take random case prompts and practice only the first 2 minutes: restate, clarify, structure, choose where to start. Don’t solve the case. Repeat until this opening feels automatic.

Once you have a consistent opening routine, the hesitation disappears and the rest of the case flows much more naturally.

Best,

Evelina

Hello Krishna! 

This is extremely common for beginners, so you’re not alone. I faced the exact same challenge as a candidate, so I know how frustrating it is.

The main issue is usually not capability, but lack of a clear starting routine. When you see a solution, it feels obvious, but generating structure from a blank page is a different skill.

How to fix it:

• Start every case the same way: clarify the objective, define success, and restate the problem in your own words
• Then lay out a simple, top-down structure (don’t aim for perfection)
• Only after that, dive into analysis

At the beginning, it’s crucial to learn the basics properly — how to structure, how to think MECE, how to open a case. Once that foundation is solid, peer practice becomes much more effective.

As a coach, I’m here to help you — we can build those fundamentals step by step, give you a repeatable case-opening framework, and get you confident enough to train efficiently on your own and with peers.